These days there is so much talk about global warming and how to live a sustainable lifestyle but what exactly is it and is it really that important? The simple answer is yes, it is that important. If we continue on the path we’re on, we’re not going to have a planet to call home. Living a sustainable lifestyle doesn’t have to be hard, expensive, or time consuming. It does however take making a conscious effort to be sustainable. Not only does it benefit the earth, but it benefits you and can even save you a little bit of money along the way.
What is sustainable living?
Sustainable living basically encompasses making a conscious decision to do things that will help and benefit the earth and ourselves by making changes to things like the way we eat, the products we buy, the way we live. These changes don’t have to be huge. The little things matter too! It is all about the choices we make everyday.
Why is it important to live green?
Climate change has to do with not only rising temperatures but also extreme weather events, changes in wildlife habitats and populations, rising sea levels, etc. One of the biggest causes of Climate change is a rise in Green House gases which is a direct result of an increase in the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, and oil. Doing things that are as simple as recycling just ½ of your household waste can save 2,400 lbs of carbon dioxide yearly or using less hot water can save at least 500 lbs of carbon dioxide yearly in most households! In addition to the burning of fossil fuel, the clearing of land for development and agriculture has also caused an increase in greenhouse gases.
The Bramble Cay Melomy
While the effects of climate change may not always be apparent, things are changing and quickly. Just last week the Bramble Cay Melomy was the first known mammal to be declared extinct!
How can you be more sustainable?
1. Use public transportation, carpool, bike, or walk
- Not using your car two days a week can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 2 tons per year according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
2. Bring your own food containers when going to the deli or market so you can avoid disposable plastic.
3. Boycott products that endanger wildlife.
4. Start your own compost pile and use it on your gardens.
- If everyone in the U.S. composted all of their food waste, the impact would be equivalent to removing 7.8 million cars from the road, according to the Composting Council. Check out how to set you your own composting bin!
5. Get informed and vote.
6. Grow your own herbs, fruit and vegetables. Not only will you save money, but you will have fresher ingredients when cooking!
There are hundreds of other ways to also live sustainably and help the earth. Every little change that we make is worth it. Whether you simply change the light bulbs in your house to more energy efficient light bulbs or you want go protest, will make a difference!
Check out these websites for more tips:
https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/climatechange/what-you-can-do-road_.html